Terroirs & Vines

Localization

On the sunny shores of the Mediterranean Sea, in the Massif of the Corbieres (Aude ), this is where lies the Chateau Saint-Esteve.

The cultivation of the vine introduced by the Greeks in 200 BC and developed by the Romans has been continuously presented in the controlled appellation of Corbieres and that of Boutenac.

The Chateau, not far from Thézan-des-Corbières, is nestled among the vines, wrapped by two hills- one side of which belongs to the massif of Corbières and the other side Mount Sainte-Victoire.

The calmness of Saint-Esteve is only interrupted in summer by the singings of cicadas, winged pipelettes perched on the majestic pines in the domaine.

There, they can admire the scrubland, the blue sky, protruding rocks, and a magnificent wilderness.
Lavender, thyme, and rosemary spread sweet scents and subtly delights the senses.

In the park, near the Lady Chapel, is a spring of water to complete this oasis of peace.

The climate

Here, the climate is clearly Mediterranean, with the big blue imposing majestically on the road here and in the distance.
The sea, as well, provides a natural moisture. The amount of sunshine is generous and optimal for the maturity of grapes.

The north wind, an exhilarating wind that significantly reduces fungal diseases of the vine, is the second component characterizing the climate of this area.

This reduces the necessary processing for the protection of the vine.

Soils and Topography

The soil types in Saint-Esteve are clay, chalky, and stony, with occasional rolled stones formed in Boutenac, especially. Soil is deep, allowing vines to obtain a good level of maturity and a longevity of the vineyard.

The vineyards are located mostly on slopes facing the south. To find the coolness, the vineyard is nestled at an altiude of 300 m, as in Mandourelle.

Grape Varieties

Carignan and Syrah grow on the lands of Saint-Esteve in a large majority, and in Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Mourvedre and Cinsault (varieties of the AOC) as well, but to a lesser extent.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Caladoc are also present in addition for the production of IGP wines.

The red varieties dominate the color palette. However, a touch of white wines are added during the year, such as the Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc, and Muscat.

Saint-Esteve Castle identifies with the fifty year-old Carignan and Grenache, as well as Syrah, which is more than thirty years.